Archipelago Yachts and Chartwell Marine announce they have secured UK Government funding to launch Methanol Pathfinder UK, a groundbreaking project to develop and prototype an advanced methanol range-extension and propulsion system designed specifically for electric vessels.
Building on earlier Innovate UK-supported work, this seven month project will focus on developing a scalable, commercially viable methanol-based energy system that enables extended range for electric vessels, with the potential to eliminate combustion engines. The approach reformulates how methanol can be used as a clean, efficient energy carrier. By converting it into low-pressure hydrogen to generate power onboard, it provides a practical and safe alternative to traditional marine fuels.
Dr Stephen Weatherley, CEO of Archipelago Yachts, said: “This Innovate UK funding marks an exciting next step in our mission to bring real-world, zero-emission solutions to the water. Methanol offers a clean, flexible, and scalable pathway to decarbonising maritime operations. By focusing on range extension for electric vessels, we’re accelerating technology that can be adopted broadly across both commercial and leisure markets.”
The Methanol Pathfinder UK project brings together a consortium of British marine innovators including Archipelago Yachts and Chartwell Marine, supported by expert subcontractors such as Blue Deep International, E1 Marine, and Auriga Energy. Collectively, the group combines deep expertise in vessel design, propulsion integration, and clean energy systems.
Together, the consortium will prototype and test a modular methanol-to-hydrogen range-extension system, designed to integrate seamlessly with electric propulsion platforms. The project will also contribute valuable data and insights to UK regulators and industry partners, helping shape emerging standards for methanol use in maritime applications.
The project forms part of the UK SHORE (Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions) programme, delivered by Innovate UK, a flagship government initiative supporting innovation across the UK’s maritime sector to deliver net zero. Through this funding, Archipelago Yachts and its partners are supporting regional growth, enhancing domestic supply chains, and strengthening the UK’s leadership in sustainable shipbuilding and marine technology.
Andy Page, Managing Director of Chartwell Marine, added “Methanol has huge potential as a clean marine fuel, but the technology and integration challenges need real-world testing. This project will demonstrate how UK expertise can lead the way in creating practical solutions for decarbonising offshore, commercial, and leisure vessels alike.”
The Methanol Pathfinder UK prototype will serve as a vital step toward future vessel deployments, including offshore wind support vessels, pilot boats, and explorer yachts.
